Maelstrom

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Posted by jwesley123, 10 hours, 31 minutes ago. Permalink

“Three Stars. One Morning. Zero Staff.”

With ICE detaining his entire staff two hours before opening, Bu Fang cooked solo at Golden Mist, Fang Fang Little Store, and Taotie—earning Michelin stars at all three.

 

By Erin Matsuda, Food & Culture Correspondent

Published: Today, 7:42 PM EST

 

 

 

This morning at 8:00 AM, federal immigration agents raided three restaurants across the U.S., detaining every employee they could find. By 10:00 AM, the doors still opened.

 

Not one restaurant.

Not two.

Three.

 

Each belonged to Bu Fang, the quiet culinary titan with a reputation for precision and intensity.

 

And by the end of the day, each one had earned a Michelin star.

 

 

 

 

Three Kitchens. No Staff. No Warning.

 

 

The three restaurants—Golden Mist in San Francisco, Taotie in Tennessee, and Fang Fang Little Store in New York—represent distinct philosophies of cuisine and service.

 

This morning, they shared one thing: an empty kitchen and an unexpected Michelin inspection.

 

At Golden Mist, known for its high-end offerings to large audiences, Bu Fang prepared a fresh salad featuring lemon and orange vinaigrette sourced from a local farmer’s market, followed by egg fried rice layered with umami, and a Goblin-King Beef Wellington as the centerpiece.

 

At Taotie, his open-air Tennessee establishment rebuilt from ashes, he opened with a simmering vegetable stew filled with tender meat, a butter-slicked stir-fried vegetable side, and a seared Goblin-King Steak.

 

At Fang Fang Little Store, a cozy six-table restaurant in New York with a kitchen built into the dining space, guests watched Bu Fang prepare a nostalgic, comforting lineup: flavorful egg fried rice with vegetables, a warm ratatouille, and an Elemental Goblin Skewer—each bite traversing the elemental spectrum from Earth to Air, Fire to Water.

 

 

 

 

A Michelin Miracle? Or a Master’s Routine?

 

 

While no one knew Michelin inspectors would arrive, all three were present.

 

One inspector wrote:

 

“I came expecting failure. What I received was a story told through food. By the end, I realized—I had forgotten what honesty tasted like.”

 

Bu Fang served, plated, washed, refilled, and even briefly taught—all without assistance.

 

He didn’t panic. He didn’t close.

He cooked.

 

 

 

 

Three Stars. One Statement.

 

 

The Michelin Guide updated their online listings this evening: Golden Mist, Fang Fang Little Store, and Taotie—all awarded one Michelin star.

Eddie Boom made a Move (foodoman GMed) 16 hours, 32 minutes ago. View Move

Exploding Rats Infest New York Sewers!

Animal control has started to report that the local rat population is starting to explode, literally.  Civilians are advised to avoid rats at all costs and to immediately report any infestations in your local area.

"We don't know what happened," reports one local animal control agent, who refused to identify himself, "There's nothing in the local environment that suggests they start acting like this."

"Yep, they took out Jerry's house last week.  Them rats have been causing chaos all over the neighborhood.  It's like they think they own the place now," a concerned civilian informed our reporter.

Stay safe out there folks!

Latest Journals

12 minutes ago: Talon Murphy wrote a Downtime Journal for The Serbian Gamble

I slipped up

Talon what the fuck where you thinking, just because you made a ballsy play at the casino doesn't mean you're immortal and look where it got you, an exploded house and a bit off tongue. You were cocky thinking that nobody would find your home, after all those Harbingers (?) managed to find you easily, why couldn't a skilled assassin with a taste for your blood not track you down? Just because I was high off the feeling of relief doesn't mean I shouldn't check for traps like I normally do. Lo and behold, that bitch Viktoria rigged a bomb to my door and sent me flying, causing me to bite my tongue off when I hit the ground. Thankfully I had that new revolver I obtained from the casino in my hoodie so I barely managed to play dead and get the jump on her. The first shot broke some sort of secret barrier she had set on her and nicked her face. Then with a speed I could barely react to she threw out a dagger, aimed directly at my throat. At that moment time itself seemed to stop, the sensation of blood filling my mouth as I focused with all my strength to shoot at the dagger, and as I fired I'm not sure if it was luck or skill but the bullet hit the dagger and ricochet into her throat, killing her. In the aftermath I patched my tongue back up and studied how to use ASL while getting in touch with my contacts about getting my hands on some explosives.

5 hours, 35 minutes ago: Lila Blackwood wrote a Downtime Journal for Glamour

Spring, at Long Last

After the storm, there was calm. Returning home, the first order of business was reuniting with Hana and Mila. I had sent them to Hungary, a precaution against the specter of war. With peace restored, bringing them back felt like closing a chapter. The staff was also welcomed back; their preparations for the worst were thankfully unneeded.

We celebrated survival and victory with a much-needed night out. Scarlet, Mila, Katarina, and I found ourselves enjoying a lively cocktail bar—laughter and camaraderie washing away the remnants of our ordeal. Katarina, now free to embrace her future, shone with the promise of a bright path ahead. My commitment to support her endures, knowing she deserves every opportunity life has to offer.

Training continued to be a cornerstone of my routine. The test of my abilities has yielded remarkable progress. My telekinetic grasp, now nearly unbreakable, gives me an edge in combat. Speed and agility have also reached new heights, making opponents seem sluggish by comparison—a somewhat embarrassing revelation.

Moreover, I’ve reached a new level of tactical insight. Years of practice have finally culminated in a state of focused meditation and exercise. Perfection, once elusive, now feels attainable without undue strain.

The month has been one of renewal and introspection, a time to strengthen not just my abilities but my resolve. As I look to the future, I remain devoted to honoring those I've vowed to protect, ensuring that both family and legacy thrive in the weeks and months to come.

15 hours, 45 minutes ago: Eddie Boom wrote a Downtime Journal for The White Ronin

Part 2: A Pyro's Prison Survival Guide

PG-13 for language

So. I'm a were-rat now. That's my plan for surviving this prison. Be part Charlotte. You know, to survive my undead assassin (which is totally unfair because I didn't fucking snitch!!! Caesar you fucking asshole >:-( ) And also to survive the Fire Cancer bullshit.

Now I've gotta talk to Denny, Arthur, and Donny about being a were-rat. Once I handle my shit, I should kick Donny's ass for not telling me that he was actually suggesting! Well... I probably won't actually do it, but he deserves it!! I'll give him a stern talking to or something!!!! AAAAAAAGGGHHH

OK. All this bullshit I'm going through here makes me think that maybe Nonna was right. Maybe there is a God. I'm getting hella Karma these days, Head Dude in Charge Upstairs said 'nah you're basically a war criminal, we ain't waiting for you to get to hell to punish you.'

And you know something? I deserve it. So I'll take it, but fuck you, God! THIS SUCKS.

And you know what? I'm gonna be a good person! I'm gonna redeem myself! You won't get to send me to hell!! I'M GONNA BE A FUCKING SAINT OUT OF SPITE, ASSHOLE. That's right. I'm gonna fight God and I'm gonna FUCKING WIN.

I'm gonna make everything right. Once I get through all this petty shit, I'm making everything alright. You know how?

I'm gonna save my parents. I'm gonna save the world. And then...I'm gonna learn how to raise the fucking dead.  


1 day, 5 hours ago: Rocco Marino (Rocky) wrote a Downtime Journal for The Demon Cabinet of Mr Long

Calling Favors

It’s been a month since that whole mess with Mr. Long’s demon in Chinatown. The city feels the same, but I ain’t the same. After we wrapped up, I didn’t just sit on my hands. There’s no rest for guys like me.

Spent most nights hitting the gym harder than usual. Working on speed, strength, and timing  stuff I know I’ll need if things go sideways again. The ritual sword and those coin amulets taught me one thing: you can’t rely on luck. Gotta be ready, every minute.

Called in a few favors too. Got my hands on some more gear, better weapons, and a couple of contacts in Chinatown who owe me one. If anything weird shows up, I want to be the first to know.

Worked extra shifts at the dump to keep the money flowing. Family still comes first, no matter what’s going on with the contracts. My wife keeps the house running, and I try to be there for the kids whenever I can. Balancing this life isn’t easy, but it’s the one I chose.

Thought about the Oath I tried to make with Love and Aurel. Still bugs me that they said no. Trust means everything in this game. Next time, I’ll make sure they don’t get a choice.

So yeah, a month of sweat, planning, and keeping my head down. But I’m ready. Whatever comes next, I’ll face it head-on. No surprises

1 day, 11 hours ago: Ion wrote a Downtime Journal for The Gustin Brewery

Learning to speak anew

Ion moves her hands holding them in front of the screen, so her teacher can see.

"Good. But a little too much rotation." The woman on the screen corrects Ion.

A flash of anger. Then depression.

Ion's light flickers bright, then dims. 

Her hand moves. She can feel the comprehending happening. She is learning quickly. Way too quickly.

Proof that whatever change made her a bomb was changing her in other ways. She was learning faster.  Healing a little faster soon. Back to 100% after a month. 

Fucking lucky that I am. I'd go even more insane if I couldn't talk to anyone 

It was two weeks, and still the only way Ion could speak was with her hands. It ... wasn't a bad way to speak. It was... fun to learn actually. 

 

But she missed her voice. 

She had given up so much already. Almost everything she was. She didn't want to lose that too.

1 day, 14 hours ago: Atsuhi Kaneko wrote a Downtime Journal for The Night The Storm hit

Sorting out Hez's Case

Ugh, the whole thing is like. A month away? There's so much more shit to figure out.

Drawing's been gettin' better. Looking out the window... the snowscape is nice, I guess. Not a lot of variance... but it's kinda fun.

I've settled on the missing farmer argument probably. Body hasn't been found, 2 kids haven't either, yada yada.

Verglas keeps working me to death. Every week he comes in with yet another legal case that has impossible, supernatural factors regardin' em.

I just need to catch a break, man.

If I could just get more money, then I could make it up for those families and then maybe earn myself enough brownie points to...

I'm never going back, but... if I do, I wanna be ready.

Jesus, what are you talkin' about Kaneko?

You'll be fineee... just focus on what you do best.

You got this, man. You got this.

1 day, 19 hours ago: Pal wrote a Downtime Journal for North by Northwestern

A return home

Pal get's back home after about a week. 

 

He text's Wren around 11 pm.

 

"Should be getting back home in the morning. Catching a late flight. Will need to do laundry pretty badly."

"Looking forward to seeing you again! But like. You don't need to see me immediately or anything. Know you have your own life."

 

"But. Looking forward to seeing you."

Unifel —

Me too! I'll make my way over. Safe flight.

RNG — 

Pal grins down at his phone.

 

He considers saying something else.

 

Instead he makes his way to the airport, boards his flight, and sleeps the full length of the flight.

 

He gets home at around 2 am. He is wearing a white tshirt that fits his frame tightly, and black sweatpants. New clothes. They don't looks expensive. Or nice. 

 

He does his best to enter the apartment quietly

Unifel —

Wren isn't at the door, but that's usual.

RNG — 

Pal opens and closes the door quietly.

 

He knows the Wren doesn't sleep.

 

But it's still good to be quiet just in case. 

 

Pal makes his way to his bathroom, the one with the laundry built in.

Unifel —

He can hear a quiet humming coming from it as he gets closer. Movement.

RNG — 

He pauses. 

 

"Hey sunshine! I'm home. Going to start a load, and take a shower. Then we can catch up maybe?"

Unifel —

How loud does he say that?

RNG —

At a normal volume. He doesn't want to accidentally wake a neighbor

Unifel — 

Cute! He's so good.

There's no response.

RNG — 

Pal shrugs. He heads into the bathroom.

Unifel — 

Wren is in there, with headphones on, humming as she pulls clothes out of the dryer. She was... She did Pal's laundry.

RNG — 

Pal blinks several times. 

 

He puts his bag down.

 

For a moment he considers hugging her from behind. Picking her up, kissing her neck.... 

 

Then the thinks about his instinctive responses to surprises.

 

Don't really want to need to fix my nose tonight.

 

He moves into the room, getting into Wren's line of sight. 

 

He looks at her with a soft look.

Wren smiles brightly, and pulls off her headphones.

"Hey! I wanted you to be able to get some rest, so I took care of the laundry for you. How'd it go?"

RNG — 

Pal shrugs. (fond. protective.)

 

"It was fine. I was mostly worried about the clothes I brought with me though." (True)

 

Pal grins. 

 

"You are so sweet. Can I kiss you?" (Happy. Fond. Relieved) 

Unifel —

"Please!"

She leans forward, one of her fangs poking out between her smile as she closes her eyes.

Image

RNG — 

Pal leans forward and kisses her, lightly holding Wren's waist as he pulls her closer. 

 

He smells sweaty, and a bit dirty. Long job. His mouth is still a little too minty.

 

He pulls back. (blissful. happy. safe)

 

"I need  to shower. Also I probably need to start a load. Got a lot of blood on my clothes. Then yes. Bed time." 

Unifel —

She makes a quiet mmmm sound, content in the kiss.

Then she smiles mischievously.

"Do you... need any help? With relaxing? And cleaning up?"

RNG — 

Pal blinks. (Surprised) 

 

Then grins. (Happy, a little aroused. Regret)

 

"I am uh.... probably not in the shape for... activities. But... we can cuddle. Shower together if you want."

 

Pal starts un packing his back. In a collection of large ziplock bags, he has several piece of clothing. The clothes he left in, and most of Moonstone's outfit.

 

It has several huge holes in it, and is covered in blood.

 

As he unzips and throws the clothes in the washer (Carefully detaching the moonstones from Moonstone's uniform), the room is filled with the smell of blood.

Unifel —

Wren's breath catches, and she licks her lips.

"Oh my god."

Unifel —

Image

RNG — 

Pal blinks. (A slight guilt. embarrassed)

 

"Oh! Yeah, I almost got cut in half." 

 

He slides his shirt off. Wren can see 3 lines of black outlining large swaths of Pal's skin. With how Pal's healing works, you know that he probably lost most of his guts. or Her guts. 

 

And was probably impaled.

He tosses the shirt in the washer.

Unifel —

Her face looks at the scars.

"You what?"

RNG —

Pal nods. (Embarrassed)

 

"Yeah, there were like. These swords, and people were good with them, and they cut me a lot. I didn't like... go down or anything. But yeah, I got cut pretty bad. "

 

Pal grins sheepishly. 

 

"Flew back after. I could have had people help, but one of them was a kid, and I kind of... Thought I could handle it?"

"Anyway, mostly was solved after that. I also had a whole aerial battle. That was cool. But yeah, was laid out after it for a bit." 

 

Pal rubs the back of his head, and keeps working on taking off the moonstones. (Embarrassed, a little worried and guilty)

 

"But I'm fine now! I can recover pretty quick nowadays."

Wren gently puts a cold hand on his shoulder.

"You need to remember you matter too. Was this kid a contractor? You need to let your team help you. You need to-"

She pauses. Her voice steady, she continues after a moment.

"You need to come home to me."

RNG —

(intense guilt)

 

"I.... Yeah. I will."

 

Pal moves his hands up to hold Wren's hand.

 

"I promise. I'll come home...."

He leans down and presses his forehead to Wren's

Unifel —

She holds him, tightly.

"Speaking of coming home, I... Will you move in with me?"

RNG — 

(Surprise. Mirth) 

 

"Oh? Like Seattle?"

 

Pal pauses. (Contemplative. Loved. Fond. Protective)

 

"Oh, that would be a lot closer to Ems anyway. And since I can't really work much anymore... yeah, that sounds great."

Unifel —

She lights up, and squeezes even tighter.

"Okay! That's great! Let me get you cleaned up, and we'll set it up."

She lets go and starts helping with the clothes.

"You take a seat, my light. Rest."

RNG — 

Pal kisses Wren's forehead, then her nose, before putting a light kiss on her lips.

 

"You are so good to me."

 

Then he goes and takes a shower. A long shower.

3 days, 1 hour ago: Rocco Marino (Rocky) wrote a Downtime Journal for Eschatology

After the Dust Settled

The Eschatology job left a mark deeper than any wound. It wasn’t just the bruises or the sleepless nights afterward — it was the weight that settled heavy on my chest. A quiet kind of pressure that doesn’t go away, no matter how much I try to drown it in whiskey or distraction.

I kept to myself for a long time after that. Not because I wanted to, but because I needed space to figure out who I am now, who I’m becoming. The city’s always loud, but I found myself searching for silence — the kind you only get when you run the streets at 3 a.m. or shoot practice rounds into an empty lot under a flickering streetlamp.

Every day, I pushed harder. Early mornings spent running until my legs burned, evenings honing my aim, learning to reload faster, thinking about how I could survive the next contract. This life isn’t for the weak or slow — it demands everything. You learn that quick.

The work changes you. You cross lines you never thought you would, see things that haunt your dreams. Sometimes I wonder if I’m still the same Rocco Marino who just wanted a quiet life with his family, a man who drove a garbage truck and kept his head down.

But that man’s gone. Replaced by someone who’s had to get sharper, colder, ready for anything. The Eschatology dust has settled, sure — but inside me, the fight is far from over. I’m still standing, still moving forward. No turning back now.

3 days, 2 hours ago: Rocco Marino (Rocky) wrote a Downtime Journal for The Nautilus Incident

After the first Job

After Chile, things didn’t go back to normal. I kept wakin’ up sweaty, thinkin’ I heard that clicking sound. I started runnin’ in the mornings—me, Rocky Marino, runnin’ like some gym rat. My hands wouldn’t stop shakin’ unless they were holdin’ somethin’. A wrench, a bat, a pistol—didn’t matter. I needed to be ready.

I practiced reloading. Fast. Blind. While makin’ dinner. Eddie would’ve laughed. Elijah probably already knew how. Anderson… he wouldn’t have said nothin’.

I got better. Sharper. More aware of where the exits were, how people move when they’re about to snap. I learned how to duck before fists flew, how to watch shadows before they moved. That Talent guy, he wasn’t wrong—I am gettin’ better. Different, too. Not all of it feels good.

The city feels louder now. Brighter. Like it’s tryin’ to distract me from what’s underneath.

But I see it. I see it all.

And I ain’t lookin’ away no more.

3 days, 14 hours ago: Minerva McAlaster wrote a Downtime Journal for State of the Union

Infrastructure improvements..

Dear Diary...

Further improvements to the travel plaza. It still takes a minute to travel anywhere, but by implementing some improvements to the staff of the cartography room, I've reduced the time between trips from an hour to just over a minute.  I've also made some other small changes that eliminate the sleepiness after using it, which, despite feeling appropriate for entering the Dreamlands, was.. kind of an issue for a Contractor sometimes.

I think I could make some further improvements - maybe pre-filled forms so it's less work to  go though it from the Dreamlands side?  or I'm sure I could make the pathfinding faster by adding scout stations or such.. but that seems like a lot of work, and I'm not necessarily sure it's worth it.  At least, not necessarily to shave that much time off.  Well.. maybe down from a minute might be worth it.  But I should practice my reality warping, too..

3 days, 14 hours ago: Minerva McAlaster wrote a Downtime Journal for The Endless Dream

The Travel Plaza

Dear Diary...

Well.  A lot has happened over the last couple of weeks!

Ever since the old King of Dreams ceded his crown entirely to me, and now... well, it's been a lot.  I've gained a lot more control over the Dreamlands - I might even be able to traverse it without a Map - although I certainly don't want to go wandering into the wildernesses for days on end alone.  But I've been able to sketch out maps that are a lot more stable.  And are... almost.. waypoint maps, really?   I think I can even make paths where others can follow.  And even head to other places.

I think if I appoint someone in the cartography room to write a map wherever someone wants to go... I could conceivably go anywhere.  Just with a little bit of forewarning. 

Takes about a minute for them to sketch the map out, but I think they're still putting too much detail into it...

3 days, 15 hours ago: Minerva McAlaster wrote a Downtime Journal for Prim & Proper

Helping Lanie

Dear Diary...

Apparently Lanie was being harassed by a Harbinger.  She asked for help.

I showed up.  Even if the way I did was a little.. unconventional.  I had thought about it in geography class a few weeks ago, but I'd... kind of you know, been meaning to maybe at least practice it before doing it live.

But in a pinch, I did.  I used it.  I got that blanket of travel out that the Goddess had given to me for safe keeping, and I travelled into the sky.  And fell down on top of  where Lanie needed help.

Paratrooper fox, here.

But it worked out!  I showed up, and there was a bit of a disagreement with them and stuff, and.. well, I saw a list of contractors that he harbinger had.  Which was kind of cool.  I knew a lot of the names on it.. but not all of them. 

Latest Completed Contracts

1198 Contracts have been run in this Playgroup
11 hours, 7 minutes ago: Ricterx ran Glamour

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The Illumination

Illuminated Earth is a twisted reflection of the modern world where the advent of smartphones and the internet confirmed the existence of the supernatural instead of disproving it. Here, witch hunts have merit. Billionaires and Senators employ paranormal advisors and bodyguards, and everyone knows. Charlatans become pop culture icons, and each revelation inspires a new cult. The world is changing. The secret societies that pull humanity's strings scramble to adapt.

Now's a good time to move up.

House Rules

Contractors from Maelstrom Are portable, and may play in Contracts in other Playgroups.
Maelstrom grants 6 Experience points to GMs who achieve the Golden Ratio.

Contractor Creation Rules

  • New Contractors must be submitted for approval in The Contract Discord server's #approvals channel before their first game.
  • At creation, Contractors cannot take more than a combined 5 Assets and Liabilities that cost/grant Exp. Free Assets do not count toward this limit.
  • Contractors cannot be direct ripoffs of pop-culture concepts, to the point that NPCs in-game would notice the similarity. For example: you could play a heroic strong-man or a famous weapons-developer but not specifically Superman or Iron Man.
  • Contractors may not start out as a concept that is likely to disrupt Contracts (e.g. being a walking, talking fox, being as notorious as Osama bin Laden, having a bomb in their chest that detonates when they die, etc).
  • Contractors are mundane people who would see their ambitions through regardless of access to powers. That is why a Harbinger offers Gifts, and why they are willing to risk their lives for the power to make their dreams come true.
    • Your Ambition must be a core driver to your character's actions, is a large point of tension for their story, and is likely to get them into trouble. Craft your Ambition carefully and be open to suggestions and changes from Endorsed GMs in order nail it.
    • Keep in mind, however, that Ambitions can (and will) change over time as your Contractor develops. It's simply part of character development! No matter what, Ambitions are why a Contractor risks their life continuing to participate in Contracts. 

 

Maelstrom Contractor Limits

  • In order to facilitate more focused character concepts, Maelstrom has a hard limit on the number of Newbies and Novices per Player. At Maximum, a Player can only have 2 Newbies and 3 Novices active in Maelstrom at once.
  • Any Contractor housed in the Playgroup is considered active. Remove them from the Playgroup if you don't want to play them. Moving Contractors back into the Playgroup requires Judge approval. 

 

Power Creation Rules

  • Cohesive Powers: Manifested Gifts must be in-line with Character Concepts and requires Endorsed GM approval.
  • Logical Flavor: Players must be able to explain how and why their power works in a given situation, otherwise GMs have license to cause them to fail.
    • For Example: a Blast flavored as a ball of fire might not work underwater. But at the same time, that same Blast power might do extra damage to enemies vulnerable to fire. GMs always have final say, but must remember to make Powers feel powerful. 

 

Citizenship

  • Active Players are expected to GM Contracts from time to time. If you have played as a Contractor 6 Maelstrom Contracts, you are barred from playing in Maelstrom again until you GM a Contract yourself.
    • This limit can be temporarily lifted if an Endorsed GM gives explicit approval to allow you to play in their game.
    • If at this limit, you may attend a game run by another GM fulfilling Citizenship.

 

Downtimes

Interacting and addressing Loose Ends, Conditions, and/or Circumstances require Moves during the Downtime between Contracts. This connects your contractor with the world in some tangible way.

  • Treacherous Loose Ends: A Contractor who waits for a Loose End's threat to manifest without taking any precautions against it during their Downtimes will see the threat revealing itself at the worst possible moment during downtime. Ask Endorsed GMs and Playgroup Leaders for Moves to help control Loose Ends before they control you.
  • Neutral/Unknown Loose Ends: Some Loose Ends are Unknown, meaning that they give the *Player* a hint of moving parts behind the scenes, but not necessarily the *Character*. A Neutral Loose End usually means that the dangers or benefits of the Loose End are obscured or up to the Character's actions once it manifests.
  • Investments: Some Loose Ends bestow benefits at the end of their clock. Investments are usually rewards for Moves and Hustles, but they might come from other sources as well. Ask Endorsed GMs and Playgroup Leaders for Moves to further your Contractor's goals.

 

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Notes on GMing in Maelstrom

  • All members of Maelstrom are encouraged to GM and run Moves, and no approval is required. Custom Scenarios likewise do not require pre-approval. 
    • Feel free to ask Endorsed GMs and Playgroup Leaders for feedback on your custom scenario before running it. 
    • By default, you cannot run Games or Moves for a tier that you have not played in yourself. For example, if you would like to run a Novice game, but have never played a Novice game, you must wait until you have had some experience in Novice as a Player.
  • Use GM Notes on the Story tab of the Contractor Sheet! This is a place to provide more detail about Circumstances, Conditions, and Loose Ends as well as important developments behind the scenes. Good GM notes makes it easier to run relevant Contracts and Moves for characters.
  • Keep intros concise during game time. If you want to run more extensive introductions, try to do it before playtime. Players, in general, should not need to be wheeled-and-dealed to agree to a Contract. A simple message sent to them should suffice.
  • In general, Contracts and Moves are subject to an "Exposure" criteria, especially when it comes to posted World Events. Contractors in higher Gift ranges have more freedom to affect the playgroup as a whole. At Newbie/Novice, however, the outcomes games will not ever have an international reach. Though Contractors might remember terrible things happening during their Contract, World Events might be scaled back due to meddling from The Powers That Be.
    • Don't take it personally if your World Event gets edited by a Playgroup Leader. It's part of the game and our efforts to keep consistent tone within the Playgroup.
  • GMs are encouraged to build interesting, consistent locations and organizations for Contractors to explore and engage with through Contracts and Moves. Talk to a Playgroup Leader about location development, they are happy to delegate the development of content.

 

Full Setting Description

This Playgroup uses the official Illumination Setting with slight tweaks.

Very small supernatural phenomena are rare, but not completely unknown. Fewer than 20,000 people in the US are born with some kind of basic supernatural abilities. Think, a guy who can snap his fingers to light a cigarette, slightly glowing eyes that help to see in the dark, or the ability to make a small electric spark. Very niche, not terribly useful, a cool party trick. The big supernatural phenomena are what makes the news, and what creates Illuminations. A bona-fide werewolf, an insect disguised as a human, a monstrous cryptid, or other similar intense anomalies will absolutely catch the attention of the media if they are found.

World Events

Posted by jwesley123, 10 hours, 31 minutes ago. Permalink

“Three Stars. One Morning. Zero Staff.”

With ICE detaining his entire staff two hours before opening, Bu Fang cooked solo at Golden Mist, Fang Fang Little Store, and Taotie—earning Michelin stars at all three.

 

By Erin Matsuda, Food & Culture Correspondent

Published: Today, 7:42 PM EST

 

 

 

This morning at 8:00 AM, federal immigration agents raided three restaurants across the U.S., detaining every employee they could find. By 10:00 AM, the doors still opened.

 

Not one restaurant.

Not two.

Three.

 

Each belonged to Bu Fang, the quiet culinary titan with a reputation for precision and intensity.

 

And by the end of the day, each one had earned a Michelin star.

 

 

 

 

Three Kitchens. No Staff. No Warning.

 

 

The three restaurants—Golden Mist in San Francisco, Taotie in Tennessee, and Fang Fang Little Store in New York—represent distinct philosophies of cuisine and service.

 

This morning, they shared one thing: an empty kitchen and an unexpected Michelin inspection.

 

At Golden Mist, known for its high-end offerings to large audiences, Bu Fang prepared a fresh salad featuring lemon and orange vinaigrette sourced from a local farmer’s market, followed by egg fried rice layered with umami, and a Goblin-King Beef Wellington as the centerpiece.

 

At Taotie, his open-air Tennessee establishment rebuilt from ashes, he opened with a simmering vegetable stew filled with tender meat, a butter-slicked stir-fried vegetable side, and a seared Goblin-King Steak.

 

At Fang Fang Little Store, a cozy six-table restaurant in New York with a kitchen built into the dining space, guests watched Bu Fang prepare a nostalgic, comforting lineup: flavorful egg fried rice with vegetables, a warm ratatouille, and an Elemental Goblin Skewer—each bite traversing the elemental spectrum from Earth to Air, Fire to Water.

 

 

 

 

A Michelin Miracle? Or a Master’s Routine?

 

 

While no one knew Michelin inspectors would arrive, all three were present.

 

One inspector wrote:

 

“I came expecting failure. What I received was a story told through food. By the end, I realized—I had forgotten what honesty tasted like.”

 

Bu Fang served, plated, washed, refilled, and even briefly taught—all without assistance.

 

He didn’t panic. He didn’t close.

He cooked.

 

 

 

 

Three Stars. One Statement.

 

 

The Michelin Guide updated their online listings this evening: Golden Mist, Fang Fang Little Store, and Taotie—all awarded one Michelin star.

Eddie Boom made a Move (foodoman GMed) 16 hours, 32 minutes ago. View Move

Exploding Rats Infest New York Sewers!

Animal control has started to report that the local rat population is starting to explode, literally.  Civilians are advised to avoid rats at all costs and to immediately report any infestations in your local area.

"We don't know what happened," reports one local animal control agent, who refused to identify himself, "There's nothing in the local environment that suggests they start acting like this."

"Yep, they took out Jerry's house last week.  Them rats have been causing chaos all over the neighborhood.  It's like they think they own the place now," a concerned civilian informed our reporter.

Stay safe out there folks!

Lewis Black made a Move (Noralius GMed) 2 days, 17 hours ago. View Move

Chiapa, Mexico City – Mai 2025

Cartel Activity Increases After Mysterious Incident in Chiapa Slums

Residents of the Chiapa slums are reporting unusual activity following a quiet but strange night earlier this week. Several locals claim a known cartel affiliate was found unconscious in his tent, later waking with no memory of how he got there. Since then, neighbors say the man has been plagued by vivid nightmares and erratic behavior.

 

“He was healed like a miracle,” said one witness. “But something’s wrong. He’s not the same.”

 

Cartel presence in the area has surged, with reports of armed patrols and new faces watching the streets. Rumors of outsiders moving through the slums have also begun to spread, but nothing has been confirmed.

 

Officials have not commented, and most residents have learned not to ask too many questions. Still, something happened that night—something no one wants to talk about too loudly.

 

Jingles the Jester made a Move (Lord_of_Clueless GMed) 3 days, 17 hours ago. View Move

Birthday party in rural Belgrade caught attention

A article on the fifth page of the B92 Newspaper reads:

A rather interesting birthday party took place in the rural part of Belgrade. In attendance were a good amount of children from the Belgrade Open School. The entertainment was handle by a rather daring entertainer. Reports from neighbors were about a clown juggling on a tightrope with burning chainsaws. Some of the neighbors were shocked to see something like this at a children’s birthday party, while others joined in at the festivity’s. There were also sightings of the famous Serbian Talent-Scout, Gregor Gribanović being seen at the birthday.


People are wondering if that might be one of his new talents.

All in all it is nice to see a birthday party bring together people of all walks of life.
 

Ms. Daisy Fortune made a Move (Cryst0lline GMed) 3 days, 19 hours ago. View Move

Divination and Curses, Unraveled

[Below is an excerpt taken from a book.]

Palm reading is an excellent method of getting to know a person's fate regarding factors such as life expectancy, romance, and finances. Or rather, those are the common uses for this technique. Those pursuing deeper levels of understanding may find themselves learning more than they first expect, such as alien origins, genetic diseases and curses, weaknesses, and more. This can be assisted with the target's personal possessions, though many may dismiss this as purely speculative, since inferences can easily be drawn from the state of one's clothing, for example . . .

[Lylith looks up at Miss Fortune.]

"Is this what you're looking for? Otherwise, we can take a look at certain runes and glyphs."

Lila Blackwood made a Move (Ricterx GMed) 4 days, 21 hours ago. View Move

War on the Horizon

The international news would become abuzz with the news that there was a major attack in a European country. This new cast would be centered on the currently burning destruction of the Saint Sava Cathedral in Serbia. 

 

“Yes, behind me is the still burning building, we have yet to find out what caused this historic landmark to be set ablaze however, authorities as well as the Serbian government are holding a press conference to figure out what is happening.” - Sky News Reporter.

 

Hours after the blaze had been mostly settled, reports of casualties ranging in the several dozens were stated to be from both Serbians, tourists, and pilgrims wishing to view the site. With over 28 dead and more injured as reports come out of a possible terrorist attack. The news would pull towards the government soon, giving a response.

 

“We have reason to believe that this attack on such holy ground was done by radicals under the Kosovo ‘government’. These monsters, known as the KLA, have been shown to be funded by them, and due to this, we will be forced to take this as a stance of war from them. We have no further information at this time.”

 

Moving on from this, only a few days later, the international community would give follow-up statements. Italy seemingly supported Serbia in their near wish for war, while larger nations like Britain and the United States have taken a backseat approach and are not getting involved in matters currently. They have, however, stated that they will wish no further harm be done on either side of things.

 

One day later, Belgrade, Serbia's capital, would be stricken by...something. International news is developing on what this ‘thing’ is; however, it has been shown to cause some kind of pained metamorphism. Hospitals in the region have been filled to the brim with cases, and the cabinet has been placed on high alert, same for the military. Information is sparse right now as to what has been happening; the government has said it's under control, but is further blaming this on Kosovo aggression. War seems inevitable...

Len made a Move (foodoman GMed) 1 week, 1 day ago. View Move

Strange Lizard People Sightings

Sightings of strange lizard folk have been sighted all across the country.  There are reports of numerous crimes being committed by these creatures and the public has been advised to keep their distance and report any findings to their local law enforcement.

Crimes reported included breaking and entering, assault, kidnapping, and theft.  People targeted are often wearing expensive jewelry with colorful gems.

The lizard creatures are around two to three feet tall, with various colors of scales.  They often ambush their victims and strip them of valuables in minutes before disappearing.  It's unknown if this is the result of an organization, or part of another phenomenon.

Loyabard made a Move (foodoman GMed) 1 week, 5 days ago. View Move

Oasis - The Best Restaurant in Town!

A well dressed reporter looks directly into the camera with the restaurant, Oasis, located in Maple Valley, Washington.  She's looks happy to be here.

 

"Hello!  I'm Kaylee with Local Channel 8 News!  I'm here today in front of a local treasure!  The Oasis!  It's run and operated by Penelope Varela.  Penelope has been running the Oasis for a bit of time now.  I have Penelope with me right here.  Penelope, what is your goal with the restaurant?"

The camera pans out to show Penelope Varela standing next to the reporter.

"Thank you for having me on the program today Kaylee!  My goal is to provide a safe place for the down and out for those people in our society!  Sustainability is another major goal of my restaurant."

"Fascinating!  Can you tell me what inspired you to start the restaurant?" Kaylee asks.

"Well, I didn't have the best start in life, but I managed to escape it.  I hope to give people who like me a chance to escape as well." Penelope answers the question.

"How noble of you!  What's the furthest you've ever seen someone come to visit your restaurant?" Kaylee asks.

"I'm not in the habit of asking about people's past.  I don't want to bring up bad memories they may be carrying.  However, I can say someone came all the way from Texas to pay a visit!"

"Really?  That's quite a ways!  Thank you for your time today Penelope," Kaylee finishes with a cute smile.

"Thank you for having me on your program today!" Penelope replies.

"This is Kaylee with Local Channel 8 News!  Back to you Tom!" Kaylee finishes the field report.

Chicot (Jean-Anthony d'Anglerais) made a Move (Higanbana GMed) 1 week, 6 days ago. View Move

Clown report intensifying

A month after the initial wave of clown-related disturbances, the situation has escalated in a surreal and alarming direction. Reports are now emerging of individuals dressed as clowns with animal features; ears, tails, fur-covered suits... Some were visibly armed and moving in coordinated groups. Eyewitnesses describe them as a hybrid between street performers and paramilitary cosplayers.

These aren’t birthday party clowns,” said one shaken resident. “One of them had a wolf mask, a rainbow vest, and what looked like a real rifle.”

Authorities have yet to confirm the legitimacy of the weapons, but the tone has shifted from ridicule to concern. Investigators believe this could be an offshoot of the so-called Circus of Carnage, a radical performance gang previously dismissed as a joke.

Now, no one is laughing.

Ware made a Move (RNGrant GMed) 2 weeks, 1 day ago. View Move

Eccentric Millionaire buys Island

// A local paper in San Francisco reports on some activity from a local millionaire. This is covered in small papers, not a national headline

"In other news, Local Millionaire owner of Waretech has purchased an Island over this last week. Reporters reached out to the company, attempting to determine the reason for the purchase, and if this is a sign of potential future offshoring.

A PR representative from Ware tech stated 'This Island is for a small number of operations and research but will in no way displace the employees or facilities currently employed at Waretech. All employees will be hired from moved from existing branches.'

Our network reached out for details on what type of operations are expected, and if the construction would use American labor, and got no response."

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